How to Be a Girl in the World

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

For fans of Rebecca Stead, Laurel Snyder, and Ali Benjamin comes critically acclaimed author Caela Carter's timely story about a tween girl coming to terms with her changing body and the recent attention she’s been getting from boys. Available in paperback!

Lydia hasn’t been comfortable in her own skin since the end of sixth grade, when the boys at her school started commenting on the way she looks in her uniform. Her cousin and friends think she should be flattered, but the comments make Lydia uncomfortable and confused. To deal with it all, Lydia tries to be invisible by layering her clothes even in the summer and reading horror novels to escape her fears.Then her mom surprises her by buying a dilapidated house in their neighborhood. Lydia’s certain it holds the magic she needs to protect herself, especially when she discovers a book of spells. But when the magic Lydia deeply believes in eventually loses its power to keep her safe, she isn’t sure what else to do...except try to figure out how to be a girl in a messy world.

About the Author

Caela Carter has written three books for middle grade readers: My Life with the Liars; ALA Notable Forever, Or a Long, Long Time; and One Speck of Truth. This is her fourth. Caela lives in Brooklyn, NY.